Acacia flower jam

Acacia Flower Jam – A Fragrant Delicacy from Nature

Acacia flower jam is a traditional recipe, full of fragrance and flavor, that reminds us of warm summer days and the beauty of nature. This jam is not just a dessert, but also a way to preserve the essence of acacia flowers, a true treasure offered by nature. Whether you enjoy it on a slice of fresh bread or use it as a special ingredient in various pastries, acacia flower jam will bring a touch of elegance and refinement to your table.

Preparation Time:
- Active time: 90 minutes
- Cooking time: 4.5 hours
- Total time: 6 hours
- Servings: Approximately 10 jars of 250g

Ingredients:
- 500 g acacia flowers (stem removed)
- 3 kg sugar
- 3 L water
- 9 teaspoons lemon juice

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Flowers:
Choose fresh acacia flowers with open, white clusters. It is very important that the flowers are picked from unpolluted areas, preferably in the morning when their aroma is most intense. Carefully remove the flowers from the stem using your hands, and avoid any yellow or black parts, as these can affect the final taste.

2. Washing the Flowers:
Fill a large bowl with cold water and add the acacia flowers. Wash them well to remove any impurities. Repeat the washing process several times, changing the water until it remains clear. This step is essential for obtaining a pure and fragrant jam.

3. Blanching the Flowers:
Take a clean cheesecloth and add the washed flowers, tying the ends securely. In a pot, bring water to a boil. When the water is boiling, immerse the cheesecloth with flowers and let it sit for 3-4 minutes. This will help stabilize the color and aroma of the flowers. After blanching, remove the cheesecloth and let the flowers drain in a sieve.

4. Preparing the Syrup:
In a large, well-cleaned pot, add the 3 L of water and the sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to completely dissolve the sugar. After about 60 minutes, the syrup will start to thicken. Add the lemon juice, which will help preserve the color and flavors.

5. Cooking the Jam:
Add the well-drained acacia flowers to the hot syrup. Let the mixture simmer on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. It is important to be patient, as the jam needs to cook until it reduces by almost half, and the consistency becomes thick. This process can take between 4 to 5 hours, but the result will be worth the time.

6. Preparing the Jars:
While the jam is cooking, prepare the jars. Wash them well with water and detergent, then rinse. To sterilize them, you can place them in the oven for 15 minutes at 100 degrees Celsius. Let them cool completely before filling.

7. Bottling:
When the jam is ready, pour it hot into sterilized jars, filling them almost to the top. Screw on the lid and place the jars lid-side down on a clean towel. This step will help create a vacuum and keep the jam fresh for a longer time.

8. Storing:
Let the jars cool completely wrapped in blankets. Once cooled, label each jar with the date and contents and store them in a cool, dark place.

Practical Tips:
- If you want a less sweet jam, reduce the amount of sugar by about 500g, but remember that sugar is also a natural preservative.
- You can add a teaspoon of vanilla or a few cardamom pods for an additional interesting aroma.
- The jam pairs perfectly with natural yogurt or as a filling for cakes and tarts.

Nutritional Benefits:
Acacia flowers are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory and calming properties. This jam can be a quick source of energy due to its high sugar content, but consumed in moderation, it can add flavor and health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use dried acacia flowers?
Answer: It is recommended to use fresh flowers, as the aroma and texture are lost in the drying process.

2. How long does the jam last?
Answer: If stored correctly, acacia flower jam can last up to a year.

3. Can I use other flowers to make jam?
Answer: Yes, flowers like rose hips or roses can be used to create aromatic jams, each having its own characteristics.

Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy acacia flower jam on a slice of toasted bread with butter or use it as a filling for pancakes. It can also be a wonderful ingredient for cocktails or refreshing drinks, adding a floral note and delicacy.

Possible Variations:
Try combining acacia flowers with a bit of lavender to create a jam with a complex floral character. Additionally, adding fruits like strawberries or raspberries can bring a note of acidity and a more intense flavor.

In conclusion, acacia flower jam is a recipe worth trying, bringing not only a delicious delicacy to your table but also unforgettable memories from nature. Prepare it with love and enjoy every spoonful! Bon appétit!